5 common sunscreen myths you need to stop believing

Sunscreen is arguably the most important step in any skincare routine, yet it’s surrounded by a surprising number of misconceptions. Believing these common sunscreen myths can leave your skin vulnerable to sun damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. At ScentSphere, we want to ensure you have the correct information to protect your skin effectively. Let’s clear up the confusion and get the facts straight.

Understanding how to use sunscreen correctly is the first step toward healthy, protected skin. It’s more than just a product for beach days; it’s an everyday essential. In this guide, we’re debunking the most persistent myths to help you make informed decisions for your skin’s health. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your sun protection strategy.

Myth 1 You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days or indoors

This is one of the most dangerous sunscreen myths. Many people ask, do I need sunscreen indoors? The answer is a resounding yes if you’re near windows. UVA rays, which are responsible for aging the skin, can penetrate glass. That means if you’re working from home by a window or driving your car, your skin is still being exposed. Similarly, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through clouds, so a cloudy day doesn’t give you a pass on sun protection. Daily application is key, regardless of the weather or your location.

Myth 2 The SPF in your makeup is enough protection

While it’s great that many foundations and powders now contain SPF, relying on it as your sole source of sun protection is a mistake. The reality is that to achieve the SPF level stated on the bottle, you would need to apply a much thicker layer of makeup than anyone typically would. Think about a quarter-sized amount of foundation for your face—it’s just not practical. The “spf in makeup is enough” belief leaves you significantly under-protected. Always apply a separate, dedicated sunscreen product before your makeup for reliable coverage.

Myth 3 People with darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen

While it is true that darker skin has more melanin, which offers some natural protection against the sun, it is not enough to prevent sun damage completely. All skin tones are susceptible to skin cancer and the aging effects of UV radiation, such as hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. This is one of the most critical sunscreen myths debunked by dermatologists worldwide. Everyone, regardless of skin color, should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every single day.

Myth 4 A higher SPF means you can stay out longer

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, doesn’t relate to the amount of time you can spend in the sun, but rather the amount of UVB protection it offers. For example, SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. The difference is minimal. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UV rays, and its effectiveness wears off over time due to sweat, water, and environmental factors. You must reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating, no matter how high the SPF.

Myth 5 All sunscreens are the same

Sunscreens come in two main types: chemical and mineral (or physical). Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat, while mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, sit on top of the skin and physically block the rays. Your skin type may react better to one over the other. For instance, those with sensitive or acne-prone skin often prefer mineral formulas. Exploring different options is a great idea, and you can find a variety of amazing sunscreens in the ScentSphere shop to find your perfect match.

• Always choose broad-spectrum: This protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
• Apply enough product: Most people only apply about half the amount of sunscreen they actually need.
• Don’t forget your lips and ears: These areas are commonly missed and are susceptible to sun damage.